Food business registration

Starting a food business

If you own – or are taking over – a food business in Thurrock, you must register your premises with us at least 28 days before opening.

This includes:

  • catering businesses run from home
  • mobile premises such as vans
  • temporary premises such as stalls

You must register all premises if you own more than one.

Registering your food business

Registering your food business is free. You can register with us online via the GOV.UK website, below.

GOV.UK: Register a food business

Go to GOV.UK: food business registration for more information.

Help for start-ups

You can get help with licences, managing food safety, food hygiene, inspections, menus rules, finance, VAT and the law from the Food Standards Agency: guidance for food businesses.

Go to GOV.UK: food, catering and retail for more advice, including a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles guide.

Food safety

For practical advice about food safety, read Food Standards Agency: food safety management and Food Standards Agency: safer food, better business.

We can also help you with business waste and business recycling collection.

Food Team

: 01375 652 955

: foodsafety@thurrock.gov.uk